Hospice of the North Country, Plattsburgh, NY

2002 & 2003 Dan Riley Memorial Golf Outing Recipient

The idea of a memorial event was born over a greasy breakfast at a diner in 2002. And for two years after that breakfast, friends and family of Dan Riley gathered to celebrate his life and better the lives of others at an annual golf outing Betterment helped to coordinate in their Plattsburgh, NY community.

“The golf outing allowed my family to honor my father and express our gratitude to an amazing organization that helped all of us during a very difficult period,” said Katherine Riley.

That organization was Hospice of the North Country. Since 1984, Hospice of the North Country has been the only agency in a 1,700-square-mile area to provide specialized end of life care. Annually, they assist more than 200 families of terminally ill patients. The Betterment-sponsored outings in 2002 and 2003 helped the Riley family raise funds to support the spiritual and bereavement services that Hospice provides for 13 months after a patient’s death. These services are mandated, but not covered by Medicare or other insurers.

“These events were in thanks to Hospice for all of their care and compassion,” said Katherine. “And, they were a fitting tribute to my father.”

The two Betterment golf outings have inspired another fundraiser in the Riley family to support the American Cancer Society in memory of a family friend. And, the Rileys continue to enhance their community in their dad’s honor in other ways such as their recent donation of a bench to beautify a local beach park.

“I think this is really the power of Betterment,” commented Katherine. “You not only help people in immediate need and build communities, but it is the ripple effect that is truly unlimited.”

“Betterment enables me, in a small but significant way, to help develop community both locally and on a larger scale.” ~Katherine Riley